Related Experiment Videos
Cervical burners in the athlete.
Brian Shannon1, John J Klimkiewicz
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Sports Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center-MedStar Health, Washington, DC, USA.
Clinics in Sports Medicine
|March 7, 2002
Summary
Pediatric athletes rarely experience back pain, but accurate diagnosis is crucial. Pars interarticularis injuries are a common cause, requiring thorough evaluation for effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sports Medicine
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Back pain is uncommon in pediatric athletes but often indicates specific underlying conditions.
- Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate management and treatment of pediatric back pain.
- Injuries to the pars interarticularis are a frequent cause of back pain in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis for pediatric athlete back pain.
- To highlight common etiologies, particularly pars interarticularis injuries.
- To outline the diagnostic process for pediatric back pain.
Main Methods:
- Detailed patient history taking.
- Comprehensive physical examination by a physician.
- Targeted laboratory and imaging studies based on clinical suspicion.
Main Results:
- Nearly 50% of pediatric athlete back pain cases are attributed to pars interarticularis injuries.
- A systematic approach combining history and physical exam aids in differential diagnosis.
- Timely diagnosis facilitates appropriate treatment.
Conclusions:
- Back pain in pediatric athletes necessitates a precise diagnostic approach.
- Pars interarticularis injury is a prevalent cause requiring specific diagnostic considerations.
- Effective management hinges on early and accurate diagnosis through clinical evaluation and work-up.